WHAT IS A GULET ?

New concept in marine literature the Turkish Gulet

The word gulet is taken from the Italian word “guletta” and refers to a double masted wooden sailing vessel and is also often used to describe ketches and caiques.

Since the time of King Mausolos, Turkey has been an important centre for wooden boat building. Ptolemaus from Egypt had his warships made in Bodrum in 300 B.C. The gulet is a miraculously survived relic from the days of Christopher Columbus. It is a compromise between tradition and twentieth century hedonism.

The modern version of a traditional craft built in southwest Turkey for centuries, and used originally for plying their trade around the Mediterranean. The classic Gulet, best known for its rounded aft, low frofile in the water, and roomy hull, was once used by fishermen and sponge divers to transport their catch.

Today’s version comes complete with 21st century comforts and technology, but still all hand built as they have been for hundreds of years.

Gulet is a traditional style wooden yacht, also called “Caique” with one or two masts, having strong engine for motoring long hours a day. In general, gulets vary in length hence varying passenger capacity. Large sundeck, in/outdoor space, lounge for meals, cabins with private WC/showers provide comfort while on the sea. Gulets’ capacities vary from 4 cabins to 16, each cabin to accommodate 2 persons in a double bed. Captain, cook and crew make a wonderful team for a pleasant journey.

Basically, Gulets are traditional wooden boats of Southwest Turkey. Most of them built in Bodrum, Fethiye, Marmaris and Bozburun. Bodrum is the Europe’s largest shipyard for wooden yachts.

Gulets are becoming increasingly popular as a charter vessels.